Support for expecting dads
New parenthood can be an exciting and challenging time for all parents.
It’s important to know that dads can be affected by postnatal anxiety and/or depression too. We’re here to help.
Up to 1 in 10 new dads experience postnatal anxiety and/or depression. Mental health concerns can affect your enjoyment of being a new dad, your bond with your baby and your ability to function in daily life.
Reaching out for help or seeking treatment or advice from a health professional can help you adjust to the changes of parenthood and really enjoy life with your new baby.
On this page you’ll find information, articles and stories to help you look after yourself.
Signs & Symptoms
Symptoms of anxiety and depression look different for everyone. These are some of the common signs and symptoms of postnatal anxiety and /or depression in new dads
- High physical stress levels (For example headaches, muscle tension).
- Loss of interest in things you usually enjoy (For example work, relationships, down time).
- Appetite changes.
- Sleep problems (unrelated to baby’s sleep).
- Changes to sex drive and desire for intimacy.
- Irritability, anger, resentment, frustration, moodiness.
- Fear of looking after your baby, or avoiding caring for them.
- Feeling rejected by your partner as they focus on caring for baby.
- Emotional withdrawal from your partner, baby, family, friends.
- Not wanting to communicate with your loved ones.
- Feeling isolated and lonely.
- Using alcohol or drugs to ‘escape’ or cope.
- Thoughts of self-harm or suicide.
Mental Health Checklist
How are you going?
Every Dad's experience of birth and parenting is unique and brings different rewards and challenges.
Complete our online mental health checklist to see if what you're experiencing or observing in a loved one could be a reason to seek help.
PANDA National Helpline
Find someone to talk to, Monday to Saturday.
1300 726 306
Call 000 for police and ambulance if you or someone else are in immediate danger
Talk with friends or family
Consider talking about how you are feeling with someone you trust. This might be a friend or family member. Once you starting talking you might be surprised at how many others have had similar experiences and the support they can provide you.
Talk with your doctor
Talking with your doctor can be an important step to getting the help you need. They should be able to give you non-judgemental support, assessment, diagnosis, and ongoing care and treatment. They can also refer you to specialists such as a counsellor, psychologist or psychiatrist.
Get help now
If you are having suicidal thoughts or are feeling disorientated it’s important to get help immediately. PANDA is not a crisis service, if you need immediate support call Lifeline 13 11 14 (24/7).
PANDA CHATBOT
Chat to Dot
Meet Dot. They’re here to support you to explore your mental health and wellbeing during pregnancy and as a new parent.